Page 22 - the Noise July 2016
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arts briefs
jeremia sunfelloW susan elliot ryanne sebern
iSland influenCe
Vivid colors, intriguing form and mesmerizing lines harmonize to create a Maui- inspired series of wood-panel paintings by artist, Jeremia Sunfellow. Through a family connection to the island, the Camp Verde artist has created images incorpo- rating both the sun and sea by popular demand of the people of Maui.
“I was inspired by retro postcards, brilliant blues, gold accents,” Ms. Sunfellow says.
The texture of the wood serves an elemental role in the overall look and feel of the pieces. Before she brushes on a drop of paint, her inspiration starts with the grain of the wood, taking into account the shape and shadow of each groove. Through analyzing her canvas, she pulls three-dimensional patterns from the flat surface, creating a work of art with dimension, dynamic and flow.
In comparison to her last series, the painter has shifted from the mellow tones of black and white to the bursting excitement of color and light. She echoes these techniques into her interest for the female form. One shining example is her recent piece, Sunburst an oil and ink painting of a reflected woman ignited in the dramatic sunlight. Streaks of color erupt behind her as a palm branch lingers overhead, waves crashing into her. The careful attention to detail of the torso, hair and femi- nine curves compliments the symmetry of each artistic component.
“As a self taught artist I am constantly learning and incorporating new tech- niques into my work. This is an essential part of my creative process as it is a con- stant challenge and it means each new piece is unique,” Ms. Sunfellow explains, “I’m always striving to do better and create more complex and meaningful work. I strive to create art that is beautiful and striking, but hint at something more just below the surface.”
Ms. Sunfellow has been experimenting with art for much of her life. Growing up, art was considered a constant throughout her childhood. Even at times when resources were limited, her parents ensured she at least had paper and paints.
“All of my early childhood pictures feature me bent intently over some art proj- ect or another,” Ms. Sunfellow recalls.
Her island-motivated showcase will be open for public viewing at Arizona Stronghold, 1023 North Main Street, Cottonwood. On July 9, a meet and greet with Ms. Sunfellow will be held from 6-9PM during Second Saturday ArtWalk. To learn more about the artist and view more of her work please visit Miasunfineart.com .
CeleBratiOn Of tHe fOurtH
Beneath the summer sun, live music, sizzling food and local artisans orchestrate the 10th Annual Flagstaff Art in the Park, a Fourth of July Arts & Crafts Festival. This free event showcases quality, handmade fine art designed and created by
the exhibitors — a well-rounded celebration in the heart of Downtown Flagstaff: Wheeler Park.
From jewelry, pottery, textiles, glass, photography, woodworking, to handcraft- ed furniture, guests can immerse themselves into a variety of art forms. As one of the highest quality art shows in all of Northern Arizona, Art in the Park will show- case the talents of local and regional artists such as Joni Pevarnik, Susan Elliot, Ryanne Sebern, Robin Cadigan, Kath Farr, Sarah Walker, Angie Bray-Widner, Zac Kothrade, and Baje Whitethorn, joined with 100 other artists from across the Southwest.
Producer Stu Wolf is intent on creating an open, family-friendly environment in which the public can personally meet the artists and craft persons from the area. “We used to know who made everything in our homes, from the furniture we sit on to the clothes we wear. This event tries to fix this new reality,” Mr. Wolf explains.
Accompanying the artistic atmosphere, uninterrupted live music will enter- tain throughout all three days of the event, with musical appearances by Matt Bingham, Brad Gerver, Paul Perreault, and Planet Sandwich.
While enjoying the captivating experience of the Flagstaff art community, guests can sample and buy a bottle of wine at the event’s relatively new Wine Gar- den featuring six Arizona vineyards, a partnership with the Arizona Wine Growers Association.
“The atmosphere is something akin to a large garden party with hundreds of your friends in attendance,” Mr. Wolf describes. Wheeler Park is located across from City Hall, 212 West Aspen Avenue, Flagstaff. The event runs July 2-3 9AM-6PM and ends July 4 9AM-4PM. flagstaffartinthePark.com
mOre fOurtH
Following the hype and patriotism of Downtown Flagstaff’s July Fourth parade, Flagstaff Symphony Orchestra continues the festivities with a concert at the Pepsi Amphitheater. Conducted by Jon Eder, this critically-acclaimed event is free to the public.
The gates open at 2PM and the concert begins at 3PM. Spectators are invited to bring either a blanket or folding chair for their comfort during the performance. Pepsi Amphitheater is located at Fort Tuthill County Park, Flagstaff just off the I-17 exit 337.
For further information regarding this event, stop by the FSO table on First Friday located in Babbitt’s Backcountry Outfitters on 12 East Aspen Avenue, Flagstaff. They will also be sharing details about their summer chamber series, four small- scale events in various locations around town launching July 31.
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the nöísẽ | the best of arizona | JULY 2016 {online at thenoise.us}